Under Advisement: What It Means in the Legal Context

Definition & Meaning

The term "under advisement" refers to a situation in which a judge is considering a case after hearing all the evidence and arguments from both parties. During this time, the judge has not yet made a decision or issued a judgment. This period allows the judge to deliberate on the issues presented, ensuring a thorough evaluation before reaching a conclusion.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: In a civil lawsuit, after both the plaintiff and defendant present their cases, the judge may take the matter under advisement to consider the evidence before issuing a ruling.

Example 2: In a criminal case, if a judge is determining a sentence after a conviction, they may keep the case under advisement while reviewing relevant factors and guidelines. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

State Time Limit for Under Advisement
Indiana 90 days
California No specific limit, but decisions should be made promptly
Texas 30 days for most civil cases

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Under Advisement Period during which a judge is deliberating a case after hearing evidence.
Pending A case that is awaiting a decision but may not necessarily be under advisement.
Judgment The final decision made by a judge regarding a case.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you find yourself in a situation where your case is under advisement, it's essential to remain patient while the judge reviews the evidence. You may want to consult with your attorney to understand the implications of this phase and what to expect next. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates that may assist you in managing your case effectively.

Quick facts

  • Typical time limit: Varies by state (e.g., 90 days in Indiana).
  • Jurisdiction: State-specific rules apply.
  • Possible outcomes: Rulings can lead to further legal action or resolution of the case.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It means the judge is considering the case after hearing all evidence and has not yet made a decision.